New Worlds

Sometimes everything around us feels the same, small, uninspiring and limiting. We are tempted to become like plants in a pot that cannot grow for lack of more soil to sink our roots into. The day comes, however that we are moved to a bigger pot or out into the open ground to grow to out hearts content. For me cycling was this move, a glimpse into a whole new world. When I purchased my first bike, it was off a man wanting to sell it quick because he wanted the cash, it was a good bike for a good price and so the deal was made. (To throw some humor into this story you should know I test rode the bike in jeans and heels.) I got past my timidity quickly, finding that "clipping in" wasn't as torturous as I thought. I thrived on having the wind in my face and a whole new world was opened up all around me. There was a sense of freedom and independence when I was on the bike, I could ride fast, I could ride far, I could get in the zone or I could lift my head to see the green hills and vineyards surrounding me. My senses were delighted and I flourished both in and from cycling.

Earlier this week The Flying T Youth Ranch had the joy of hosting 15 kids with Autism, and for that time they got to see a whole new world, large barns, open skies, and gentle horses. The horses that are chosen to work directly with the children are selected because of their gentle nature, calm demenor and willingness to let kids pet, ride and walk them. So for a day these 15 kids could dream, and laugh; for one day they got to know the love of a horse who didn't know them as any different then any other child that comes to the ranch. Sometimes we all need the blessing of a new world.

The countdown to the first race is getting closer, thanks for coming on this journey with me. If your heart is burdening you to help a child near you or help us by donating to ranch I hope that you will!

Brooke